I am deeply thankful for the work of Runwell globally and locally. In the past two years I have had the joy of running with this organization and learning about who they are, as well as learning about myself. Runwell is a beautiful selfless group of people who give without hesitation, believe without question, and are determined to leave behind a legacy of hope .
My name is Patrick Bowles and I am an addict. My sobriety date is May 12, 2015. I currently live at Gateway Community Services in Jacksonville, FL. On my first week of treatment I was presented with the oppurtunity to participate in Runwells Pilot Program with Gateway, at first I only joined the walk group, however on my third week I found myself running my VERY FIRST 2 mile run with Eric, (an ambassador for runwell). Since that day I began running on my own here at gateway, I would run 40 laps a night in the serenity garden, it brought something to my recovery which words cannot describe, while others smoked cigarettes and complained about the food, I would run. I ran my first race on June 27th 2015, (The Get Inspired 6k.) I completed in 29:05, and came first in my division. Since that fateful day I have been run 5 other races, after the 6k I was told that Linda Quirk wanted to speak with me, and shortly thereafter was invited to the 4Deserts Roving Race in Sri Lanka which is an Ultramrathon, 155 miles over the course of 7 days. Ive been running ever since. I never ran for anything in my life, I never even ran from the cops, Runwell has become a cornerstone in my recovery, Gateway and Runwell have not only saved my life, but they've together given me a life beyond my wildest dreams. I am an addict from the streets of Arlington and I am traveling to the far side of the world to run in a race the likes of which will never again occur. I can only extend my sincerest gratitude to Runwell and Linda Quirk for seeing in me that which I could not see in myself, Runwell gave me something which I now have a passion for, my time spent running is what I like to call my "Time of self nurturing." Its something that I never imagined would happen for me. Runwell has supported me and cheered me on even in dark times during my recovery, and I know without a doubt that we of Runwell will continue to change lives... One Footprint At A Time.
A wonderful non profit organization staying true to breaking the stigma surround addiction and mental health issues!
As a charity runner and Ambassador for Runwell I can tell I fully believe in their mission and have seen the results. From my first inquiry about how I can help I have been supported by an amazing staff and an entire organization of people.
I think one of the most appealing part of Runwell is it's simplicity. Run a race to raise money and awareness of a global problem and then work directly towards its solution. How easy is that.
I am an Ambassador with Runwell. My experience with Runwell has only been positive. They push and encourage their Ambassadors to be the best athletes and people they can me. Over the last year, I have learned more about myself and grown in my recovery, very much due to my experience with running and Runwell specifically. I credit Runwell for being a large part of my recent growth process, and know that Runwell has made a difference in countless other lives, and will continue to do so!
Runwell is an important non-profit and the only non profit that raises funds for scholarship's for those in need of treatment who can not afford it. Funds are also used for health and wellness programs within communities for those who are in recovery.
By participating in an event organized by Runwell or an event of your choice whether is running, hiking , walking or other any wellness event, you can designated your funds to a treatment center of your choosing. Amazing non -profit!
The willingness to support those with addiction & or mental health issues makes Runwell a force for positive change!
My husband was once an addict and i know first hand the effects it has on the family! He has been sober for over 5 years now and i think the support from Runwell has helped him achieve this milestone! Now he runs for those who can not run for themselves at the moment and to provide treatment for those in need, but without the funds. God Bless Runwell!
Runwell does an amazing job of raising awareness and funds that allow those that suffer from addiction to get the treatment they need!
I started volunteering with Run7on7 which is now Runwell in 2009. I believe in Ruwell and I have seen Runwell change lives. I can't imagine myself not being part of Runwell.
If we don't save our children, who will? We are all too familiar with the stories: addiction running in families, close calls, overdose and lives gone too soon. Our children need our support to not only embrace the idea of recovery, but also a life in recovery. I’ve built a foundation based on encouragement, community and wellness, on breaking the cycle of addiction. I believe in recovery, and I believe the individuals suffering from addiction can and should have a chance to trust and be trusted, they should have a chance to love and be loved. The path to recovery is different for everyone, and we can change the conversation about addiction by embracing it for what it is; encouraging a life of wellness, a loyalty to community and respect for oneself. Runwell provides scholarship funding to assist those who otherwise could not afford treatment. Other funding is used to support health and wellness initiatives within communities nationally. Every donation is used wisely to help others to achieve a life in Recovery.
Runwell raises money and awareness to help people struggling with addiction. Some of the money raised goes to treatment centers to help provide scholarships to those in need. Other funding is used to support health and wellness initiatives within communities, including Jacksonville, that engage people in exercising and proper nutrition. These initiatives help everyone and provides a continuum of care for people in active recovery. I know my donations are used wisely and help a lot of people.